Monday, December 24, 2007
The Marlins on Monday signed former Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Jose Castillo, potentially plugging a key hole in their infield.
The only question is whether Castillo will replace Miguel Cabrera at third base or if he'll play second, which would shift Dan Uggla to third base.
Castillo, 26, was Pittsburgh's starting second baseman from 2004-06. But he was demoted to a utility infield role last year, playing 34 games at third and 20 at second.
The Pirates released Castillo this month, after they unsuccessfully tried to trade him, to make room for right-handed reliever Evan Meek, whom they selected in the minor-league Rule 5 draft.
Castillo, who made $1.9 million last year, is considered an above-average defender at second base, turning 107 double plays in 2006.
He also has strength in his bat. Although he batted just .244 with no homers and 24 RBI in 87 games in 2007, he batted .299 with 14 homers and 65 RBI in 2006.
The Marlins are encouraged that Castillo will bounce back and have a solid year in 2008. In winter ball in his native Venezuela, he is batting .367 with 6 homers and 30 RBI in 44 games.
Marlins sign former Pirates 2B Castillo
Marlins sign Jose Castillo
Marlins sign Jose Castillo
Linear Mode
